Top Cars

The 2009 Kia Rio and Rio5 add a few new features. Rio comes as a 4-door sedan in base, LX, and SX trims. Also available is a 4-door hatchback called Rio5; it comes in LX and SX trims. All have a 110-hp 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard. A 4-speed automatic is available on LX and SX. Available safety features include ABS, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. A digital audio player input jack is newly standard, as is satellite radio. Rio shares its powertrains and basic design with the Accent from Kia's parent company, Hyundai.

The 2009 Kia Rio receives a new AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with SIRIUS Satellite Radio capability and three months of complimentary service, standard on all trim levels. The LX and SX trims also get a USB port alongside the auxiliary audio input jack in the center console.

COMPETITION: Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. The subcompact class is made up of the smallest hatchbacks, sedans, and wagons on the market. These are generally considered economy cars. Our Best Buys include the Honda Fit and Suzuki SX4. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, and Scion xD. New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Aveo, Honda Fit, and Pontiac G3. The Toyota Yaris adds a 4-door hatchback to its model lineup for 2009.